For many, choosing a college can be an overwhelming task, but for me, I knew I would attend Montclair State University since the age of 12. I have always wanted to become an educator, and I knew that Montclair State had a very strong teacher education program. After being here for two years, I have grown to love it for even more reasons, including the diversity, extra-curricular opportunities, and the people. It is well-rounded university that is able to provide me with everything that I need.

One of the first things I noticed when I arrived here was the diversity of the people on campus. Everyone was different, and that made me feel comfortable. African Americans, Arabs, Muslims, Christians, and every type of culture or religion you can possibly imagine surrounded me.  I like knowing that there is no stereotypical Montclair State student.

Because of this diversity, the University has a plethora of organizations to add to the college experience. Last year, I joined the Muslim Student Association and now have a great group of people around me that I can identify with on many levels. They have become like a second family whom I can lean on. It is organizations like this that help make Montclair State so special - everyone feels as if they have a place here.

The education I'm receiving is also surpassing my expectations. The professors are extremely supportive, and not only are experienced in their fields, but also will guide and mentor the students. I know I'm getting the best education and will be fully-prepared for my chosen career. Great people and a phenomenal environment is what Montclair State has to offer, and I am more than satisfied.

It was a Montclair State alumnus who first introduced me to the University and my first visit to the campus had me hooked—I knew that I would seek admission to Montclair State. A number of factors influenced my decision: I had a growing interest in finance and Montclair State’s AACSB accreditation, when combined with the price point of the education, was something that I could not pass up.

Now in the middle of my third year, it’s safe to say that I fully consider Montclair State to be my home. Because of its proximity to New York City, the University is able to offer opportunities in internships, as well as social and networking opportunities that are not readily available anywhere else. And the University’s academic and advising programs allow me to have information about these opportunities at my fingertips.

Twice a week, I take a train ride into Hoboken for a private equity research internship at The Burgiss Group—a position I was able to find through Montclair State. Prior to that, I interned at Merrill Lynch. Both internships have added greatly to my work experience and given my resume a competitive edge.

I thrive on challenges and my professors inspired me to push myself in my academic pursuits and professional career. My time here has both expanded my cultural horizons and fostered an unyielding desire to attain perfection in my courses. Montclair State has equipped me with the tools necessary to become a competitive choice for the business arena.

I chose to go Montclair State University for a number of different reasons. It has a beautiful, nice-sized campus that doesn’t feel like a maze, it is close to my home, and it has one of the very best performing arts departments in the whole country. 

As a Theater Studies major, I can audition for a variety of professional-quality performances, even as a Freshman. Here, it doesn't matter whether you're in the Musical Theater department or in one of the sciences––everyone can audition because the department values talent way more than politics. In my program, I get to take hands-on classes in acting, directing, play writing, as well as all the behind-the-scenes production disciplines. For example, last semester I helped build the sets for our production of Sweeney Todd, and now I'm in the Costume Shop creating costumes.

I feel really lucky to go to a school that offers so many amazing opportunities. I’ve met all sorts of interesting people who are all just as committed to getting what they want out of life. Montclair State has students from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, and many foreign countries as well. Going to a diverse university was a crucial deciding factor for me, so I'm extremely thankful that this school is exactly that.

When you ask someone about their college experience, they might talk about parties or roommates. But for me, I can talk about my first casting call and photo shoot, or the fun of having a theater class with the head of your department! In other words, I love this university and feel that Montclair State literally acts as a doorway to personal success.

“Carpe Diem” - or “seize the day” - is Montclair State University’s motto and those words are what persuaded me to become a Red Hawk. I aspire to become a Speech Pathologist and I knew the school had a great linguistics department and Master’s program to lead me to my goal.

Cultural diversity was also a large factor in my decision. My high school wasn’t diverse and I was yearning to experience diversity. Montclair State’s population is very diverse and I knew I could meet so many wonderful people of various ethnicities.

I am learning something new every day. I love to explore and to learn new things and I would never change that about myself. Luckily, Montclair State has provided the opportunity for never-ending learning and I am grateful to be able to expand my horizons.

Another large part of my decision in choosing Montclair State was involvement. There are so ways to be involved on campus: there are jobs, fraternities, sororities, clubs, and events happening for students all the time. I jumped right in trying different things until I eventually settled on Student Government, the Recreation Center, and the Admissions Ambassadors.

I feel that coming to Montclair State was the right decision for me. I am proud to be a Red Hawk and proud of what I’ve learned. Here I’ve gained great friends, new knowledge, and wonderful memories. Montclair State has given me the opportunity to spread my wings and has set me on the path to my bright future.

I'm Ariel Casner and I am a Red Hawk.

I chose Montclair State because it is an ideal fit for me. As a commuter I can stay connected with family and friends from home. Plus, I am very active in various organizations on campus, like the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, where I am the Executive Vice President.

I also have a scholarship from the University thanks to my strong SAT scores and a high GPA in high school. As a Molecular Biology major with a minor in Chemistry I am currently involved in my own animal behavior research in the Science Honors Innovation Program.

I'm hoping to have my research published before graduation. I've had the opportunity to present my research not only to faculty, but also to some of the largest pharmaceutical companies in our area.

After Montclair State I plan to attend medical school and eventually perform reconstructive plastic surgery specializing in Pediatric Cranial Facial Reconstruction.

Being at Montclair State has also been advantageous for my career path. Centrally located in Northern New Jersey I am in easy reach of some of the world's best medical institutions.

Montclair State offers a great experience for everybody, whether they are interested in business, musical theatre, education, or medicine - like me. All in all, I am happy to be a Red Hawk.